Level 1 focuses on core techniques that underpin all mountain biking. These skills are essential for riders new to coaching and form the technical base for all higher levels.

• Fundamentals of weight shift and body movement for descending
• Stance, body position & contact points
• Pumping and absorbing movement for balance and control
• Effective braking technique
• Cornering fundamentals

Level 2 takes the fundamentals from Level 1 and applies them to technical descents, flow trails, and specific trail features.

• Technique for drops
• Pumping and absorbing for pressure control on technical descents and flow trails
• Floating, squashing & jumping tabletops & gaps.
• Applying pressure through turns using momentum and body movement
• Maintaining flow through rough and rocky terrain

Level 3 is designed for experienced riders looking to improve speed, efficiency, and consistency on steep, technical, and demanding terrain.

• Race-specific skills for Downhill, Enduro, and XC
• Speed control on steep terrain
• Advanced line choice and momentum management
• High-level cornering techniques
• Carrying speed through rough and rocky features
• Drop techniques

“Top course today with Michael. Really benefitted from having someone analyse my technique and show me the right ways. I feel like I’ve made progress even in the limited time and now I have the tools to take my riding to the next level.”

“In January I set myself a target of being able to ride every red and black grade trail [at Bike Park Wales] by the end of the year. I’ve just ticked off the last two obstacles that were psyching me out! Big thanks to Michael at Rideabout for the skills course that set me on this path. I highly recommend him if you want to improve your mountain bike skills.”

“Great skills session today, i have learnt a lot from Michael who has a lot of knowledge and very useful trail riding techniques and exercises to help with what your trying to achieve. We mainly focused on body position & cornering and I certainly feel I have learnt a lot within a short space of time. Michael is very patient and nothing is to much trouble for him. A great coach who I would highly recommend.”

“Absolutely loved this coaching course, very clear and understandable explanations, I could feel myself improving throughout the course, really enjoyed it and would recommend to anyone.

Great time today even in the rain. Learned loads more today. Great points. I even managed to get my big girl pants on and do the drop eventually, with the patience of Rideabout instruction.”

If you’re new to MTB coaching or unsure where to start, Level 1 is recommended. It focuses on core techniques that underpin all mountain biking. Level 2 and Level 3 build progressively on these skills and are best taken in order, even for experienced riders.

Yes. Riders should have completed the previous level or already demonstrate a strong understanding of the required techniques. Skipping levels often slows progression, as advanced skills rely on solid fundamentals.

Yes. But if you are looking for tailored coaching i’d recommend my Trail Progression Programme, for the majority of riders. However if weekdays are more convenient or you are working on improving race performance, Private 1-to-1 and small group MTB coaching is a better option.

MTB skills coaching runs in most weather conditions, as learning to ride in variable conditions is part of skill development. Sessions may be rescheduled in the event of unsafe conditions.

A helmet is essential. Gloves are strongly recommended, and knee pads are advised for Level 2 and Level 3 courses. Please bring water, snacks, and clothing appropriate for the weather.

Yes. Riders must bring their own mountain bike that is suitable for off-road riding and in good working condition. Hardtail and full-suspension bikes are both suitable, depending on the course.

Level 1 MTB skills courses are designed for new mountain bikers, riders returning after a break. You need to be a confident cyclist, be able to stand up on the pedals and ride blude graded trails.